Varanasi: With the commencement of Navratri, the Varanasi Municipal Corporation (VMC) enforced its order banning the sale of meat within its limits from Sunday. After Navratri, the sale of meat will also be banned in and around the district during the Indian Air Force’s three-day air show.VMC’s veterinary and welfare officer, Dr Vijay Amritraj, said an order directing all meat, fish and poultry shops in the city to remain closed during Sharadiya Navratri was issued on Saturday and strictly enforced from Sunday. The shops will remain closed until Oct 19, he said, adding that the VMC issued the directive keeping in view the sentiments of devotees.He said the VMC was ensuring compliance through its employees in all zones. They have been directed to conduct drives, and penal action will be taken against anyone found negligent or violating the order.The restrictions will continue in an expanded form for the Indian Air Force’s 94th anniversary aerial display at Namo Ghat, which has been declared a state event. To prevent bird-hit risk to fighter jets, the administration has banned the sale and cutting of meat and fish within a 20-to-30-kilometre radius of Namo Ghat from Oct 19-26. The air show is scheduled for Oct 22, 23 and 25, with Oct 26 kept as a reserve day.
